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Navigating Compute Discounts: A SAA-C03 Exam Question Walkthrough
Learn how to choose the best compute option for AWS SAA-C03 with our detailed walkthrough of a key exam question.
A common challenge for candidates is understanding how to balance cost with flexibility in AWS. The SAA-C03 exam tests this knowledge with real-world scenarios.
The question
A company runs a steady, always-on production workload for the next three years and wants the largest compute discount while keeping flexibility across instance families. Which option is BEST?
- A) On-Demand Instances
- B) Spot Instances
- C) Compute Savings Plans (3-year commitment)
- D) Per-second billing with no commitment
Think before you scroll
Consider the requirements: a long-term workload, the need for flexibility, and the desire for the largest discount possible. Each option has its pros and cons, but not all will meet all criteria.
The answer
The correct option is C) Compute Savings Plans (3-year commitment). This choice offers significant discounts for a commitment of one or three years and allows flexibility across different instance families, making it ideal for steady workloads.
Why the other options lose
- A) On-Demand Instances: While they provide flexibility, they do not offer the cost savings needed for a steady workload. This option is more suited for variable workloads where capacity needs are unpredictable.
- B) Spot Instances: These instances are cost-effective but come with the risk of termination when AWS needs the capacity back. This does not align with the requirement for a steady, always-on workload.
- D) Per-second billing with no commitment: This option provides flexibility but lacks any significant discount. For a long-term workload, it is not cost-effective compared to other options.
The concept behind it
Compute Savings Plans are designed for predictable workloads that require long-term commitments. They offer discounts while still allowing the flexibility to change instance types and sizes, which is essential for adapting to changing requirements.
Exam trap to remember
Remember: long-term workloads benefit from commitments. Compute Savings Plans provide both savings and flexibility, making them the go-to choice for steady production environments.